Seven Tips To SUSTAIN XP

TIP 1: The last version of Internet Explorer for Windows XP was IE 8. This is now an outdated browser and an increased threatto security. Today it is better to use third-party browsers like Chrome, Firefox, or Opera. These browsers pose less of a threat and will continue to run Windows XP support in the future .

TIP 2: Programs like Flash, Java, and Adobe Reader were important in the past for Internet users. In light of usinga now unsupported OS we recommend eliminating these doors for hackers. Most video sites like YouTube and Netflix use HTML5, which will minimize your need for Flash. Java is still required for certain applications, but unlessyou use those on a daily basis, there's no need for it to be installed. Lastly, there are some safer alternatives thanAdobe Reader. Try Sumatra PDF, Nitro PDF, and Foxit Reader

TIP 3: Get a full antivirus suite. This small cost, usually under $50, takes less time than replacing your computer or upgrading to a new system. In the past Microsoft Security Essentials, was relatively good and completely free. but it doesnt work for XP any longer. We recommend Avast free antivirus. Although this may slow your computer down somewhat we are confident that it will protect your computer.

TIP 4: The surest way to stay safe is to stay off the Internet. If your Windows XP machine's uses don't requirean Internet connection (such as home theater, playing music, or games), then disconnect. Otherwise usethe limited account privilege setting in the User Control Panel. Use the admin account only when youneed to update, patch, or install something.

TIP 5: Any programs you're not using can be a risk now that you're on an outdated OS. Keep baggage to thebare minimum by uninstalling apps you don't need. IObit, Revo, and Advanced Uninstaller can help.Then update whatever applications remain. Just because Microsoft stopped supporting Windows XPdoesn't mean that software developers are dropping it, too. A majority of publishers still offer updatesto their software at least for another year.

TIP 6: In the short term, end of support will have little to no effect on either the functionality orsecurity of a system running Windows XP. However, any vulnerability that has not yet beendiscovered will no longer be fixed by Microsoft. The biggest risk to a computer runningWindows XP after April 8, 2014 is if one or more cyber criminals have resisted using a securityvulnerability they discovered months or even years ago in order to wait for Microsoft todiscontinue support for Windows XP. By doing so, they would be ensured that whatevervulnerability they use to compromise a Windows XP system will not be patched by Microsoft.

TIP 7: If your computer is simply your home personal computer, there is likely not anythingforcing you to update. It is of course recommended in order to keep your computer and datasecure, but for general usage there is no law saying you have to. However, if you are in abusiness environment or otherwise have to adhere to industry or federal standards, you maybe required by law to update to a newer OS. For example; HIPAA, PCI-DSS, and Sarbanes-Oxley all have provisions that in one way or another will make Windows XP non-compliantafter April 8, 2014.